BETONG: More than 350 local residents gathered at Dewan Millennia in Debak on Friday to celebrate the 'Mantar Gawai Dayak' for the N.35 Saribas constituency, an event held in high spirits and marked by cultural vibrancy and unity.

Organised by the 'Gerempung Tuai Rumah Saribas' in collaboration with the Saribas Constituency Service Centre and the Betong Parliamentary Service Centre, the celebration was officiated by Deputy Minister for Community Wellbeing Development and Saribas Assemblyman, Datuk Mohammad Razi Sitam.

In his address, Datuk Mohammad Razi expressed pride in the strong sense of togetherness displayed by the people of Saribas in celebrating Gawai Dayak, emphasising that the development achievements enjoyed today are a result of the people’s steadfast support for the state’s leadership.

“One of the key developments we are set to witness is the official opening of the Saribas Bridge in Beladin this coming Sunday. It stands as a concrete testament to the government’s commitment to bringing progress to rural communities,” he said.

He also announced a special allocation of RM8,000 for each longhouse in the Saribas constituency as a token of appreciation in conjunction with the Gawai celebration.

An additional contribution of RM7,000 from the Member of Parliament for Betong, Dato Dr Richard Rapu, was also announced during the event.

Datuk Mohammad Razi further noted that the Saribas constituency is among the beneficiaries of the Betong Division Development Agency (BDDA), with a RM200 million allocation earmarked for each state constituency under its purview.

This, he said, underscores the government’s strong commitment to enhancing development in rural areas. -UKASnews